On Sunday, the New York Times published an op-ed by Panthera’s Vice President, Dr. George Schaller, and the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Asia Program Deputy Director, Peter Zahler, entitled ‘Saving More Than Just Snow Leopards.’

Read the article to learn how conservation of the endangered snow leopard across Pakistan, Afghanistan, Tajikistan and China has triggered the establishment of new community partnerships and institutions and international diplomacy initiatives. Learn how local people in these nations, neighboring countries and the international community are joining together to protect their wild landscapes and wildlife, including the endangered snow leopard and its prey species – urial and markhor. Also learn how the snow leopard serves as a keystone species, helping to maintain the health of its ecosystem, the threats facing the 3,500-7,000 snow leopards that remain, the multi-national snow leopard conservation programs underway and more.

Panthera’s Dr. George Schaller explained, “I feel that the most important long-term result of the various snow leopard studies is that we’re cooperating with and training nationals in their own country who have accepted the responsibility of protecting and managing the mountain environment, for the benefit of all species of plants and animals including the livelihood of the local people.”

While huge challenges exist for the snow leopard, “one thing is clear: Changes are afoot in the high mountains of Asia. And a mysterious, secretive and snow-colored cat appears to be leading them.”